Inspired by his father, Anthony was interested in art and drawing from an early age and obtained a graphic arts degree from Leeds Art College. Before focusing full-time on children’s literature, he worked as a medical illustrator for three years and illustrated greeting cards.
His first book, Through the Magic Mirror, was published in the 1970s and was followed by a number of other books. But it was Gorilla that won Anthony a raft of awards and praise, including the Kate Greenaway Medal (now the Carnegie Medal for Illustration), becoming a much-loved classic story.
Gorillas feature in many of Anthony’s books. He says: ‘I am fascinated by them and the contrast they represent – their huge strength and gentleness. They’re thought of as being very fierce creatures and they’re not.’
In 2000, Anthony received the highest international honour for illustration, the Hans Christian Andersen Award, for his services to Children’s Literature – the first British illustrator ever to win the prize and in 2021 was awarded a CBE for his services to Literature. His work has been widely exhibited, and his books are published all over the world.
Goals as Waterstones Children’s Laureate
During his time as Children’s Laureate, Anthony promoted the importance of picture books and children’s illustration. He was keen to encourage children to be creative and use their imaginations, and to support the development of visual as well as verbal literacy.
He went on to create The Picture Book project: a collaboration between Seven Stories and Action for Children. Artwork produced by some of the 400 children who took part was displayed in an exhibition. There were also creative workshops for children. Anthony also developed the exceptionally fun Shape Game for children to play at home or in the classroom.
